The Kabarak University TVET Hub is on a mission to equip entrepreneurs and innovators with the financial and business skills they need to succeed. This effort is helping strengthen the informal sector and create a foundation for sustainable enterprises.
Through training, partnerships, and capacity-building programs, the Hub is making a real difference. Central to its work is promoting financial literacy and raising awareness about product certification. These are key tools that help businesses grow and compete in the market.
Understanding the challenges entrepreneurs face in the informal sector, the Hub designs programs that bridge knowledge gaps and unlock economic potential. A highlight of this work was the one-week Training of Trainers (ToT) program held at Hotel Waterbuck in Nakuru City. Hub trainers came together for intensive sessions aimed at sharpening their skills and preparing them to share knowledge effectively. The Hub was represented by Dr. Faith Yator, the lead trainer, along with Mr. Vincent Baraka, Purity Changwony, Mr. Pius Kimayo, and Eva Gatukui, each bringing expertise in financial literacy, product certification, ICT, and marketing.
The training was supported by GIZ and IYA Seed, organizations known for empowering youth and growing enterprises. The sessions focused on practical skills like budgeting, record keeping, access to finance, business sustainability, and product certification. These skills help entrepreneurs meet standards, reach more customers, and grow their businesses.
By training trainers first, the Hub ensures that knowledge reaches a wider group of entrepreneurs and innovators. These entrepreneurs play a vital role in Kenya’s economy, bringing creativity, resilience, and untapped potential. Certificates were awarded by Executive Director Dr. Dan Mutai, who commended the team for their dedication.
Partnerships with organizations like Dandelion Africa, GIZ, and IYA Seed strengthen the Hub’s programs. From mentorship to technical training and market access, these collaborations give entrepreneurs the support they need to succeed.
For participants, this training is more than a learning experience. It opens doors to formalizing businesses, improving product quality, and competing in local and international markets.
As Kenya continues to recognize the importance of the informal sector in economic growth, programs like the TVET Hub’s are essential. By investing in people, building skills, and encouraging innovation, the Hub is helping communities prosper and businesses thrive.
The Hub is also working with other innovation centers to empower local projects, train more entrepreneurs, and connect them with banks and SACCOs for funding. As an institute, we are excited to keep growing through meaningful community engagement.
